The Heart of Canowindra’s Main Street
The Heritage
A Storied Foundation
In the 1860s, as the Australian gold rush transformed the landscape, the original Victoria Hotel emerged as a gathering place for travellers, workers and the growing Canowindra community has evolved into an icon of rural elegance.
Today, we honor this legacy through our "Bush Tavern Chic" character a seamless blend of historic grit and contemporary artisanal comfort. Every creaking floorboard and iron lace detail whispers tales of a century and a half of hospitality.
Origins & Expansion
"A new brick section consisting of ten rooms was built in 1908 in anticipation of the railway coming to Canowindra."
The first weatherboard Victoria Hotel was built in 1865. The new Victoria flourished and grew in the heart of Gaskill St providing both hotel accommodation and office space. The weatherboard pub was demolished and two new additions were built in 1911 and 1913. This created an interesting corner where folk could congregate for a yarn.
Architectural Elegance
The graceful arches and iron lace of the verandas were matched in the new wing, though the fashion of the twenties demanded that a veneer of glossy tiles should cover the mellow hand-made bricks outside the bar.
A Shift in Purpose
The Victoria closed its doors as a hotel in 1967. After the interior was remodelled, it reopened in 1969 with a group of local investors giving it a new life as Canowindra Convalescent Home during a period of declining business in the area.
The Old Vic Today
In more recent history, The Old Vic was transitioned back to accommodate visitors to the area as a guesthouse and restaurant. It has also become a central hub for the growing local arts scene. The hotel has a long association with local and regional artists.
Stories & Characters
The walls of the Old Vic have witnessed the transformation of Australia, hosting figures that shaped the nation’s folklore.
